Clarity: SI1

Q&A: Looking for Best Round Brilliant for $9000. Puts His Trust in Me – Does he End up Happy?

Last Updated On: October 24, 2017

Ira, Your site is excellent!! Plan on doing an online diamond purchase (Blue Nile or James Allen). Not huge $$$, but I am totally obsessed with finding some value out there! And its seems your the guy. So here’s an easy one: Total budget 9k (USD) for the stone (keeps me around 10k all in) …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Buying Locally in Los Angeles vs. Buying Online

Last Updated On: October 24, 2017

Hello Ira, First, thank you for your site. It’s proven quite helpful already. My question concerns potential vendors. I live in Los Angeles where we have a wholesale jewelry district downtown. An acquaintance, who actually picked out her own engagement ring, swears that I would be a fool to not use one of these local …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Looking for 1.20 to 1.50 Carat Princess Cut for Around $8000

Last Updated On: October 24, 2017

I have been monitoring your site for a while now and have found it very informative. I do not know the first thing when it comes to diamonds except what I have read on your site. I am looking for a center stone, princess cut diamond for around $8000. I would like it to be …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Looking for 0.70-0.90 Carat Round Brilliant. Best Deal for Under $5000. GF Doesn’t Want Larger Diamond.

Last Updated On: October 20, 2020

I am looking for an engagement ring and happened to come across your site. Here is what I’m looking for: * Is your goal cheapest price for given parameters, or best diamond for fixed budget: Well, I’m looking for the best diamond that I need without overpaying for things that are not needed. * Shape: …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Looking for the Best Cushion Cut Diamond for $3000 to $4000. J Color in a Cushion Cut Good Enough?

Last Updated On: October 19, 2020

Hi, I am looking to find the best diamond in my price range (isn’t everyone? haha). I came across this website, which has been of great benefit to me, and was really hoping you could help me, as you have others. I have done some research and have found 4 I think are pretty good …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Wants a 2ct Princess Cut. Will an SI2 be Eye Clean? Blue Nile vs. James Allen? Many Issues Dealt with Below!

Last Updated On: July 3, 2025

Hi there, LOVE your site – very helpful. I am looking at 2 princess cut stones GIA certified from Blue Nile. 1) 2.01 carat H SI2 Cut VG 2) 2.12 carat I VS2 Cut G These are the same price. My questions: 1) SI2 for a stone of this size – will the flaws be …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Looking for H or I Color 1.25 Carat Ideal Cut Round Diamond for $5000-$6500

Last Updated On: October 24, 2017

Hi Ira, I love the site. Very helpful – you’ve already saved me money by showing I can still get a great diamond by relaxing some of my initial standards. I feel I’ve taken your advice on what to look for, but I was thinking maybe you could give me your thoughts on a few …

Diamond Q&A

Q&A: Canadian looking to Avoid Heavy Taxes. Should you Get a High Color Diamond to Match with a Yellow Gold Setting?

Last Updated On: July 3, 2025

Hello! Love the site!! I’ve learned so much and thank you for so much great information. I’m not sure whether you answer questions without a service charge but i’ll ty anyway! I’m located in Canada and i’m really liking what I see on the James Allen website. I’ve read so many great reviews plus they …

About the author

Mike Fried Mike Fried has over 25 years experience in the diamond industry working with Leo Schachter Diamonds, Moshe Namdar Diamonds, and joining The Diamond Pro in 2007. He is recognized as an industry expert and has been quoted in publications such as Us, People, Page Six, The Next Web and more.